With that in mind, let's take a closer look at NuVasive's business and see what CAPS investors are saying about the stock right now.

NuVasive facts

Headquarters (founded)

San Diego, Calif. (1997)

Market Cap

$660.3 million

Industry

Healthcare equipment

Trailing-12-Month Revenue

$589.2 million

Management

Chairman/CEO Alexis LukianovPresident/COO Keith Valentine

Return on Equity (average, past 3 years)

2.7%

Cash/Debt

$241.8 million / $400.3 million

Competitors

DePuy SpineMedtronicStryker

Sources: S&P Capital IQ and Motley Fool CAPS.

On CAPS, 90% of the 187 members who have rated NuVasive believe the stock will outperform the S&P 500 going forward.

A few months ago, one of those bulls, Rsue, succinctly summed up the opportunity for our community:

This is a technological medical device company innovating at the forefront of minimally disruptive surgical products and procedures for the spine. With their surgical techniques and products, spine surgery patients have less blood loss, less time in hospital, and significantly quicker recovery time both initially after surgery and longer-term -- with patients typically going back to work within 4-6 weeks versus the more usual 6 months.

If you want market-thumping returns, you need to put together the best portfolio you can. Of course, despite a strong four-star rating, NuVasive may not be your top choice.

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